New ‘Northern Lights Manifesto’ launched aiming to revitalise Scotland’s nightlife economy

The Night Time Industries Association Scotland (NTIA) has revealed a new policy document, ‘Northern Lights: A Manifesto for Scotland’s Night Time Economy 2025’.

The document highlights 31 “ambitious, urgent and actionable” recommendations it claims will help secure the future of Scottish nightlife and rejuvenate its Night Time Economy (NTE).

Unveiled by NTIA Scotland last week (August 6), the manifesto highlights six main “priorities”, including the appointment of a Minister for the Night Time Economy, financial and regulatory reforms, and initiatives to enhance transport and late-night services.

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It also highlights how nightlife in Scotland is a “critical asset” to the economy, generating £43.5 billion in GVA for the UK, and creating more than 137,000 jobs in Scotland across nightlife businesses such as live music venues, pubs, bars, and clubs.

“Scotland’s night time economy is not just about bars and clubs. It’s about the creative soul of our towns and cities,” says Mike Grieve, NTIA Scotland Chairperson.

“Without immediate and strategic government support, we risk losing the venues, voices and businesses that define Scotland’s global cultural identity. Northern Lights is a blueprint for meaningful action — and the time to act is now.”

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The manifesto is penned by Stephen McGowan (TLT LLP), with backing and contributions from those in the industry, including SWG3’s Andrew Fleming-Brown and NTIA UK CEO Michael Kill.

The document also highlights ways to improve nightlife safety and inclusion, pilot schemes for drug testing in cities, accessibility reforms, and local planning policies to “protect iconic venues and cultural heritage”.

Speaking on the manifesto, NTE Ambassador for Glasgow, Jenn Nimmo-Smith, said: “From world-class clubs and grassroots music venues to late-night cafes and cultural spaces, we need national and local leadership that puts regeneration, not just regulation, at its core.”

Read the manifesto here.

Gemma Ross is Mixmag's Associate Digital Editor, follow her on Twitter